Non-Franchise / Independent

Non-Franchise / Independent retailers are specialty member dealers who are owners of the company, making a stock investment in United Hardware, purchase product on a cost-plus basis through the warehouse, but do not identify themselves by flying a United Hardware "program" flag. These retailers typically concentrate their efforts toward the hobby farmer or rural customer by offering Ranch and Pet or a combination of hardware and Ranch and Pet products.

Equity Investment

Stock purchase required:Voting Stock – $3,450 (69 shares at $50.00 per share)
New dealer pays $500 (10 shares) when joining United Hardware and balance of $2,950 (40 shares) is paid by adding 5% to warehouse purchasesClass A Stock – Purchase shares based on 2% of warehouse purchases (after Voting Stock is purchased)
- Class A Stock is capped at $75,000 or ten years, whichever occurs first
- Class A Stock capped at $37,500 for each additional locationVoting Stock/Class A Stock Repurchase - Voting Stock and Class A Stock redeemed (repurchased by United Hardware) to dealer after leaving the business or resigning the franchise

Rebate declared after year-end by Board of Directors
Paid based on warehouse purchases
Usually paid 50% in cash, 50% with three-year Interest bearing note
Rebate not guaranteed – based on United Hardware's profitability